The epidemiological situation for acute respiratory viral infections and influenza in Moscow remains calm and corresponds to the season.

The epidemiological situation for acute respiratory viral infections and influenza in Moscow remains stable and consistent with the current season. The peak of the current September surge caused by rhinovirus has passed: the number of cases has begun to decline, primarily among children. The city continues daily monitoring of cases and virus patterns, according to Deputy Moscow Mayor for Social Development Anastasia Rakova.

The epidemiological situation in Moscow is stable and consistent with the current season. Following the traditional spike in cases in early September caused by rhinovirus, the number of cases has already begun to decline. For example, at the beginning of this week, the number of children infected has decreased by a third compared to the same period last week, and overall, fewer cases of acute respiratory viral infections have been registered in the city. In Moscow, we are constantly monitoring the circulation of infectious agents to monitor the epidemiological situation. Regular whole-genome sequencing provides specialists with up-to-date data on virus strains, their types, characteristics, and potential danger to the population. Currently, the pattern of viruses among cases remains typical for the current season. Rhinoviruses predominate, accounting for about half of all detected cases. In the vast majority of cases, the disease is mild. Among the circulating respiratory infections, a small number of coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, adenoviruses, and bocaviruses, are also observed. The influenza season has not yet begun, and it accounts for less than 11% of the overall number of acute respiratory viral infections. No strains of influenza A(H3N2), known as "Hong Kong flu," have yet been detected in Moscow this epidemic season," said Anastasia Rakova.

According to Moscow Department of Health specialists, the incidence rate is expected to increase in the second ten days of November, reaching a peak by mid-December. Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu and its complications. Experts note that the flu variants currently being detected in patients are similar to the vaccine strain, meaning vaccination against them is effective.

It takes about two weeks for immunity to develop, so it's best to get vaccinated as soon as possible. In Moscow, vaccinations are available free of charge at all city clinics, as well as at 18 mobile vaccination sites located near metro stations and the Moscow Central Diameters (MCD). Vaccinations can be administered on the way home, to work, or to school, without an appointment. Before vaccination, each person is examined by a doctor to identify any possible contraindications. After a positive assessment from the doctor, the person will be vaccinated and receive recommendations. All you need to bring is your passport and compulsory medical insurance policy (CMI), if applicable. The procedure takes 10-15 minutes.

The vaccine used is effective and completely safe. Over the past several years, there have been no cases of severe influenza in city residents who received the vaccine.

Moscow has established a clear system for managing seasonal viral diseases, with sufficient hospital beds and reserve capacity for treating seasonal respiratory illnesses, allowing it to respond quickly to changes in morbidity. The epidemiological situation is constantly monitored by the Moscow Office of Rospotrebnadzor and the Moscow Department of Health.